Bangally Fatty, a UW student, has been detained and is facing possible deportation. He is currently imprisoned in the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, but his attorneys -- students at the UW Law School -- are requesting that he be released pending the adjudication of his application for a T visa. This would enable him to continue his studies, and to serve as a parent to his three-month old daughter, while he awaits a decision in his case.

We have seen in other cases that public pressure can influence the outcome in immigration cases. Bangally has been an exceptionally conscientious student, is a valued member of our community, and especially because he is the first current student we're aware of who is facing deportation, I think it is important that our community stand by him to send a strong message that we support our students.